Events
FAIIRK supports and hosts public-facing events that advance Indigenous knowledges, languages, and creativity at McGill University and in the wider community. This programming includes Artist and Writer in Residence initiatives, the Indigenous Knowledge Holder Series, as well as talks, panels, workshops, symposia, and community gatherings related to the Institute’s core areas of focus, including land, language, and governance.
Background
In 2015, the Provost and Vice-Principal convened a Task Force on Indigenous Studies and Indigenous Education to identify steps McGill must take to further reconciliation and to strengthen Indigenous learning across the University. In 2017, the Task Force released a series of Calls to Action aimed at supporting Indigenous initiatives at McGill and in the wider community.
Several of these Calls to Action relate directly to public-facing programming, including language revitalization initiatives, Artist and Writer in Residence programs, and the Indigenous Knowledge Holder Series.
Artist in Residence Program
The Artist in Residence program brings Indigenous artists to campus to engage with students, faculty, staff, and the broader public. Artists in residence participate in activities such as workshops, classroom visits, public exhibitions, public performances, and talks, and act as a resource to the campus community.
Writer in Residence Program
The Writer in Residence program brings Indigenous writers to campus to engage with students and faculty through readings, talks, and creative writing workshops. Writers in residence are also available as a resource to the campus community.
Indigenous Knowledge Holder Series
FAIIRK supports the Indigenous Knowledge Holder Series, an annual program developed within Indigenous Studies. The series invites an Indigenous Knowledge Holder to spend a week at McGill sharing their work through academic events, community presentations, and interactive workshops.